The Madison Historical Society will host a Summer Festival of Arts and Antiques on Saturday, August 27 from 9 AM to 4 PM. By creating a festival atmosphere with a variety of engaging summertime activities, the MHS hopes to offer something of interest for everyone.
This end-of-summer celebration of art, antiques, and family fun will feature vendors of fine antiques and collectibles from across the region, selling ceramics, furniture, glass, jewelry, kitchenware, linens, memorabilia, pottery, toys, vintage accessories, and more.
Additionally, an art exhibition and sale will be mounted by members of the Madison Art Society. This showcase of original works by local artists will feature a variety of media, including oils, watercolors, acrylics, pastels, drawings, and sculptures. Plein-air painting demonstrations will also be offered by select artists during the event.
Live demonstrations of such traditional crafts as bobbin lace weaving and spinning, doll making, bookbinding, pottery molding, and pottery decoration will also be featured. Crafters will sell their wares and offer instruction on these pre-industrial trades.
A classic car show of antique vehicles will be another highlight of the day. Among other vehicles, visitors will be able to see a Stanley Steamer dating from the early 1900s, a Triumph TR6 in mint condition, and a beautifully restored 1940 Ford pickup truck.
Family-friendly activities designed to engage a younger audience will include colonial games, a dunk tank, life-size Jenga and Connect Four games, face painting, henna tattoos, Silly Putty making, and a birds of prey meet and greet. Live musical performances and a delicious menu of fair foods and sweet treats round out the offerings.
Raffle items include a ride along the shoreline in a Stanley Steamer, an original watercolor portrait of your home by local artist Bill Dowling, a hand-crafted quilt donated by the Shoreline Quilters Guild, and other gift certificates that will be offered throughout the day. Tickets are $10 each or three for $25.
Just steps from the Fair is Lee's Academy, home to the MHS administrative offices. The Society is pleased to offer the community a preview of the newly restored Lee’s Academy on Madison’s historic green. For nearly three years, this iconic town structure has been under construction. Slated to open later this year, the space will be called the Madison Center for History and Culture. The MCHC will celebrate the town’s rich cultural heritage and will be a meeting space for all to enjoy. Please stop by Lee’s Academy to view our progress and learn more about the restoration process.
Important visitor information
Hours: 9 am to 4 pm, rain or shine
Date: August 27, 2022
Admission Fee: $6 / Teens $3
Free Admission to MHS Members and children 12 and younger
Click HERE for a printer-friendly $1 off admission coupon
Sidewalk Cafe: Breakfast and lunch all day long
MHS Information Booth: books for sale; membership information
Pets on leashes are welcome; any damages to exhibitor displays/wares are the responsibility of the pet owner.
Location: Madison Green; parking is available around the green.
Directions: I-95 North or South to Exit 61. Travel south on CT State Route 79 (Durham Road) to US Route 1 (Boston Post Road). Take a right turn on US Route 1 and travel a short distance to the west, to the Madison Green, which is bounded by the Boston Post Road, Meetinghouse Lane, and Copse Road.
For a $1 discount off the price of an individual admission, please print the ad that appears on this page.
Ads will also be available in local newspapers, retail establishments, and at our offices.
Antique Car Show
Please complete the form below to register your classic car. Vehicles will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis as there is limited space.